Use of wifi in French primary schools restricted by law

September 2016 - The French parliament passed a law in June which compels primary schools to switch off all wifi networks when they are not being specifically used for educational purposes. According to Senator Joël Labbé this measure is simply a question of using one’s common sense.

The French parliament wanted to implement more stringent precautionary measures with respect to the usage of wireless networks and mobile telephones in schools – in order to protect young children and teenagers against the potentially negative effects of electromagnetic radiation on their health.

The proposed law came into effect on the 25th of July. It also states that, with every sale of a mobile telephone for the use of children under 14 years of age, a special child-headset must also be included.

In 2015 the French parliament passed a law forbidding wifi in crèches and other places where children under 3 would stay for long periods. At that time, primary schools were strongly advised to turn off wireless networks when not in educational use. By implementing this as a law, the French have now gone a step further.

“This bill takes into account the rights of parents to be informed about the exposure that their children receive to electromagnetic fields. Turning off wireless networks when not in use is a simple matter of using common sense.” said Joël Labbé, senator of the Green party, who initiated this proposal.

This bill, specifically orientated for the protection of children, got 163 votes for and 149 against. Those who opposed it are worried that these measures will awaken a surge of public fears about wireless communications and health.